The Future Of Global AI Governance

In a landmark moment that is set to redefine the future of artificial intelligence (AI) governance on the global stage, the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a groundbreaking resolution – UN resolution A/78/L.49, led by the United States and co-sponsored by Kenya alongside over 120 other member states.

The pioneering resolution marks an unprecedented commitment to embedding human rights at the core of AI development, deployment, and use. It signifies a crucial step toward ensuring that the rapid advancement of AI technologies aligns with fundamental principles of respect, protection, and promotion of human rights worldwide.

Kenya’s active role in shaping the international agenda on ethical AI, represented by Philip Thigo, MBS, Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology and a member of the UN- High Level Advisory board on AI demonstrates the country’s commitment to leveraging technology for global good. Through this resolution, Kenya reaffirms its dedication to creating a global framework ensuring AI serves humanity’s best interests, guided by sustainability, human rights, and inclusivity.

UN Resolution A/78/L.49: Critical Considerations

The resolution emphasizes equitable access to computing power, essential for fostering innovation globally, especially in marginalized regions. It champions a future where technological advancements in AI are accessible to developing nations, enabling them to address localized challenges. Additionally, the resolution stresses responsible stewardship and utilization of data, empowering underserved communities to leverage local data in addressing critical societal issues while protecting data sovereignty.

The democratization of AI is vital for fostering innovation across the globe, especially in regions historically marginalized in the digital age. In doing so, the resolution champions a future where technological advancements in AI are not solely the domain of tech behemoths but are within reach of developing nations and smaller entities, enabling them to address localized challenges with global implications.

With data at the heart of AI’s transformative potential, the resolution emphasizes responsible stewardship and the utilization of data to foster sustainable and inclusive growth. For underserved communities, this signifies a monumental shift towards leveraging local data in addressing critical societal issues while ensuring the protection and sovereignty of this data.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador to the UN, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the resolution, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in AI use. “So let us reaffirm that AI will be created and deployed through the lens of humanity and dignity, safety and security, human rights, and fundamental freedoms,” she stated, underscoring the importance of ethical considerations in the use of AI. The resolution’s focus on talent development and international collaboration underscores the need to bridge the talent divide in AI, fostering equitable growth and application of AI technologies globally.

It is an acknowledgment that nurturing diverse AI talent is essential for the equitable growth and application of AI technologies. By promoting initiatives aimed at developing skills and knowledge in AI across the globe, the resolution paves the way for a future where innovation is fuelled by a broad spectrum of perspectives and expertise.

Kenya’s proactive role in this initiative positions it as a pivotal player in the global dialogue on AI governance. The nation stands to benefit significantly from increased access to AI resources, enhanced data governance, and the cultivation of homegrown talent. Moreover, Kenya’s leadership in ethical AI development through strategic use cases driven by organizations such as SpaceAI and governance sets a benchmark for other nations, especially in creating AI solutions that are sensitive to the needs of the underserved.

As we consider the resolution’s emphasis on governance, it’s clear that Kenya’s advocacy for global standards in AI governance reflects its dedication to responsible and inclusive technological development. This strategic stance not only ensures that AI technologies are used for the greater good within Kenya but also serves as a model for other countries grappling with similar governance challenges.

Overall, resolution A/78/L.49 marks a significant stride toward a future where AI is governed by principles of equity, ethics, and humanity. It embodies a collective commitment to harnessing the power of AI in addressing pressing global challenges, ensuring benefits are accessible to all. As the world enters a new era of technological advancement, the resolution stands as a testament to collaborative governance’s power in shaping AI development for humanity’s betterment.